Why Go to Stowe, VT
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Stowe is the classic New England mountain village, and it gives you a taste of the Alps without the overseas flight. Tucked into Vermont's Green Mountains beneath Mount Mansfield, the state's highest peak, it's filled with white-steepled churches, country stores, sweet shops and working farms.
In winter, Stowe Mountain Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding, and riding the gondola up Mount Mansfield is a highlight in any season. Fall brings spectacular foliage, and summer is perfect for hiking, mountain biking and the scenic drive through Smugglers' Notch. Visit the Trapp Family Lodge, founded by the von Trapp family of The Sound of Music fame, who settled here because it reminded them of Austria; today you can enjoy its Austrian-style dining and brewery. Stroll the Stowe Recreation Path, sample craft beer and Vermont cheese, and warm up with hot cocoa by a crackling fire.
Stowe is about 45 minutes from Burlington's airport. I'll find a cozy inn or slopeside lodge and plan your ski trip or fall foliage getaway.
BEST FOR
Skiers, hikers, foliage lovers and couples
BEST MONTHS
September–October for foliage; December–March for skiing
EXPLORE
Stowe Village features shops and historic streets; Mountain Road leads toward ski facilities; nearby Waterbury has food stops and access to the broader Green Mountains.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Stowe, VT
North America › Northeast › USA › Vermont
Green Mountain trails, cozy inns and classic Vermont charm
Forest
Skiing
Hiking
Autumn
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Check mountain-road and trail conditions, especially after snow or heavy rain.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Walk Main Street before setting out on a scenic mountain drive.
Stowe Village
Browse historic village streets, shops, galleries and cafés against a mountain backdrop.
Cycle or walk a manageable segment rather than rushing the whole route.
Stowe Recreation Path
Follow a multiuse path through meadows and along streams between village and mountain-road areas.
High-elevation weather changes quickly; check trail advisories.
Mount Mansfield
See Vermont’s highest mountain, with hikes and seasonal mountain access options.
The narrow seasonal road is unsuitable for large vehicles.
Smugglers Notch State Park
Experience a dramatic mountain pass with boulders, forest and hiking routes.
Paths may be slippery; stay on designated routes.
Moss Glen Falls
Enjoy a wooded outing to a waterfall near Stowe.
A full-service mountainside resort with ski access and year-round recreation.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak
Stowe Mountain Resort
Hotel Tags
An upscale spa resort along the road between Stowe village and the mountain.
Topnotch Resort
Mountain Road
Hotel Tags
An Austrian-inspired mountain lodge with outdoor trails and sweeping valley views.
Trapp Family Lodge
Stowe hillside
Hotel Tags
A historic inn near village shopping, dining and local attractions.
Green Mountain Inn
Stowe village
Hotel Tags
A modern boutique-style lodge convenient for exploring Stowe and nearby trails.
Field Guide Lodge
Stowe village
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Stowe, VT
High 43°F · Low 27°F · Rain 3.5 in
Quiet fall days before ski season.
Autumn foliage and winter skiing are signature seasons; summer is good for hiking and cycling.
Best Times to Visit Stowe, VT
WHEN TO GO
06
Outdoor Excursions
Smugglers' Notch road and certain scenic routes close seasonally; check access.
05
Winter Roads
Snow, ice and mountain traffic can affect travel from the airport and ski area.
04
Village Walking
Stowe's central streets are walkable, though lodging may be spread along Mountain Road.
03
Resort Shuttles
Seasonal shuttle services may connect Stowe village and mountain facilities; verify routes.
02
Rental Cars
A car helps reach ski areas, covered bridges and trails beyond the village.
01
Regional Airports
Burlington is a common air gateway to Stowe with a road transfer.
A car is useful for lodging and attractions spread along Mountain Road. Seasonal resort shuttles may operate; verify schedules.
Getting Around Stowe, VT
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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